Concord, NH - The SoyNut Butter Co. of Glenview, IL, is recalling all varieties of “I.M. Healthy SoyNut Butters” and all varieties of “I.M. Healthy Granola” products because they may be contaminated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157:H7. Sixteen people infected with the same strain of E. coli O157:H7 have been reported from nine states. At this time, there have not been any cases of E. coli O157:H7 linked to this outbreak identified in New Hampshire.

The recalled products have been distributed to retailers in New Hampshire, including Shaw’s, Hannaford, Target, Market Basket, DeMoulas, and Whole Foods locations; Hanover Coop, Littleton Coop, Lebanon Coop, and Philbrick’s Fresh Market in Portsmouth; and to the food distributor United Natural Foods Inc. Other locations may have received this product and consumers, food service establishments, and other institutions are encouraged to check to see if they have the recalled product.

“Due to the long shelf life of these products, it is important for consumers to check their shelves for any recalled product and dispose of it,” said Dr. Benjamin Chan, DHHS State Epidemiologist. “If you do have any, stop using it even if some of the SoyNut Butter or granola was eaten or served and no one got sick.”

Although most strains of E. coli are harmless, others can cause illness. Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a bacteria that causes severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. If there is a fever it usually is not very high. Most people get better within 5–7 days. Some infections are very mild, but others are severe or even life-threatening. Very young children and the elderly are more likely to develop a potentially life-threatening complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Antibiotics should not be used to treat this infection because they may increase the risk of HUS. Any consumers concerned about an illness should contact their healthcare provider.

Consumers who have purchased recalled product are urged not to consume the product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or putting it in a sealed bag in the trash so that children, pets, or other animals can't eat it. Consumers with questions may contact SoyNut Butter Co. at 1-800-288-1012, Monday–Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST.